This Ontario island is one of Canada's 'best kept secrets' & it's a mini summer paradise

It's surrounded by turquoise waters.

Island surrounded by turquoise water. Right: A person drinking wine at a picnic table.

Island surrounded by turquoise water. Right: A person drinking wine at a picnic table.

Lead Writer, Travel

With summer around the bend, it's time to start planning some warm-weather adventures. This dreamy Ontario island is known as one of Canada's "best kept secrets" and it will transport you to another world.

The majestic island is located on the shining waters of Lake Erie and it's a mini summer paradise.

Surrounded by turquoise waves, the destination is reachable by ferry, plane or personal watercraft.

With stunning trails, unique attractions, dreamy beaches and more, it's an idyllic spot to plan a spring or summer vacay. Here's what to know about this enchanting Ontario island.

Pelee Island is the largest island in the Western Basin of Lake Erie and is located near Leamington. The destination is home to many attractions, including a historic lighthouse, sandy beaches and the Pelee Island Heritage Centre where you can learn about the island's history.

You can also head to Pelee Island Winery for a boozy adventure. According to the website, the winery is "Canada’s Southernmost Estate Winery" and features "over 700 acres of farmland in Canada's warmest grape-growing region."

You won't want to miss a tour of Vin Villa where you can see the ruins of Canada's first commercial estate winery. The experience takes you around the ruins and to the underground cellars.

There are several restaurants and eateries to enjoy such as Stone House 1891where you can dine on a lakeside patio and Coneheads Ice Cream & Mini Golf where you can treat yourself on a hot summer day.

The Pelee Island Transportation Company offers ferry services to the island from April until early December. Many of the island's attractions are seasonal and are open May until October, so it's best to plan your trip between these months.

Pelee Island

Price: $7.50 + ferry fee per adult

When: Ferry service from April until December

Address: Pelee Island, ON

Pelee website


Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

A burst of snow will bring up to 20 cm to Ontario this week before the cold snap ends

Temperatures will warm up but still be cold enough for "lingering" snow.

CSIS is hiring for these jobs and you can get paid up to $120,000 a year to be nosy

You'll help investigate threats to national security. 🔍

U of T is the only Canadian school in the top 10 of this new best universities ranking

It beat every Canadian university in all of these subject areas! 📚

Canada's 'most romantic town' is near Toronto and it's filled with European charm

It's the perfect place to visit with your favourite person.